Tip of the Week: 4 Ways Google Maps Can Enhance Your Next Trip

Mapping the known world has long been an endeavor sought by explorers, but thanks to a relatively recent tool called Google Maps, anyone with knowledge of a smartphone can see the world at a glance. Granted, Google Maps isn’t the easiest tool to use, but if you follow these tips, you’ll feel like you have the whole world in the palm of your hand… literally.

Here are four great ways that you can maximize the value you get from Google Maps.

Plan Your Trip on Your PC and Send Directions to Your Phone
Chances are that you’ll be spending a lot of time on your computer when you’re planning a long trip, and Google Maps has made it so that you can easily send instructions from one device to another. Keep in mind that your smartphone has to be linked to your Google account to do so. All you have to do is select the route you want to take and then select Send directions to your phone. When it comes time to leave, all you’ll have to do is load the Google Maps app and you’ll be on your way.

Google Maps Can Track Your Parking Spot
Do you ever forget where you parked your car? When you park your vehicle, Google Maps will show you a message asking you if you’d prefer to save your parking location. If you decide to opt in, all you have to do is enter the information such as the lot number, a nearby landmark, and what time is left on your parking meter.

Download Google Maps for Offline Viewing
What if you lose Internet signal while you’re on the road? This can make it challenging to keep track of where you are and where you’re headed. Google Maps offers an offline mode that lets you navigate without an Internet connection. This also allows you to limit how much data you consume while out and about, which can be reason enough to access Google Maps while offline. You need to download the map data so that you’ll have access to it while offline. To do so, tap the Download button to save the map you’re looking at. To see what you’ve saved, tap the hamburger menu in the search bar and select Offline areas. In some cases, you can even navigate and search for destinations in this mode.

Avoid Highway Traffic and Paying Tolls
Did you know you can use Google Maps to avoid paying tolls? All you have to do is enter in your destination as usual and select Route options. You can then select a route based on three factors: highways, tolls, and ferries. This lets you take the route that is easiest to navigate and most convenient for you.

What are some of your favorite ways to use Google Maps? If you have any, let us know in the comments, and subscribe to our blog for more great tips and tricks.